The education of Ravens rookie free safety Matt Elam is approaching a pivotal early phase, a moment he intends to be ready for.

The first-round draft pick already knows what’s heading his way Sunday against the Houston Texans at M&T Bank Stadium. He’ll be matching wits and speed with a sophisticated, high-powered offense led by veteran quarterback Matt Schaub.

Here come the play-action passes intended to gauge whether Elam is too aggressive and will overreact to fakes by sprinting toward the line of scrimmage. Elam also anticipates a heavy dose of double moves from receivers and for athletic tight end Owen Daniels to invade his territory across the middle.

Texans cornerback Kareem Jackson (25) slams Seahawks wide receiver Doug Baldwin (89) to the turf in overtime. Jackson was penalized for a personal foul on the play, giving the Seahawks a first down. ( Brett ... more

Photo: Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle

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Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch (24) is tackled on the sidelines by Texans inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton (51) in overtime. Shaprton was called for a horse collar penalty on the play. ( Brett Coomer / Houston Chronicle ) less

Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch (24) is tackled on the sidelines by Texans inside linebacker Darryl Sharpton (51) in overtime. Shaprton was called for a horse collar penalty on the play. ( Brett Coomer / ... more